Pregnancy is often a fantastic time in a woman's life. But
pregnancy is also a delicate time, as your body undergoes massive changes. One
change that can be particularly worrisome is bleeding during pregnancy.
Bleeding during pregnancy can happen for several reasons,
some benign and others more serious. Understand all about bleeding during
different pregnancy stages and what to do.
What Is Bleeding vs. Spotting?
Bleeding comes with a heavy flow, enough to fill up a
sanitary pad or tampon. On the other hand, spotting features a much lighter
flow, barely noticeable or only visible when you wipe.
Bleeding during pregnancy can happen anytime from
implantation (when the egg embeds in the uterine wall) until delivery. Bleeding
can be heavy or light, constant or intermittent, and with or without clots.
What Are Common Causes of Bleeding During
Pregnancy?
The cause of bleeding during pregnancy differs depending on
how far along you are in the pregnancy.
Implantation Bleeding
If you experience bleeding early on in pregnancy (within
the first 12 days), implantation bleeding is the most likely cause.
Implantation bleeding happens when the egg embeds into the uterine wall. The
issue can occur around the time of your expected period but is much lighter
than a regular period. Implantation bleeding is normal, and, in most cases, you
have nothing to worry about.
If you have concerns about implantation bleeding or if the
flow is heavy or lasts longer than a few days, speak to your healthcare
provider.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy where the fertilized egg
implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. This condition
calls for concern, as the egg cannot develop properly outside the uterus and
can cause the fallopian tube to rupture.
If you experience any bleeding during pregnancy, especially
with accompanied pain or cramping, seek medical attention immediately, as this
could signify ectopic pregnancy.
Preterm Labor
Preterm labor is when you start to experience contractions
before 37
weeks
gestation. While some bleeding is normal during pregnancy, if you
also experience contractions, this is a sign that you may be going into labor
prematurely. Other symptoms of preterm labor include:
- Low back pain
- Pelvic pressure
- Diarrhea
- Watery discharge
If you experience any of these signs in addition to
bleeding during pregnancy, seek medical attention immediately.
Placental Abruption
Placental abruption happens when the placenta separates
from the uterine wall before delivery. This issue can cause heavy bleeding and
is dangerous for both mother and baby. If you experience placental abruption,
you will likely also experience intense abdominal or back pain.
Miscarriage
Unfortunately, not every pregnancy gets to a healthy
delivery. Some end early, most often within the first 20 weeks. The issue
mainly results from chromosomal abnormalities but can also be from infection,
hormone imbalances, or uterine abnormalities.
Miscarriage is characterized by heavy bleeding (soaking
more than one sanitary pad or tampon per hour) with or without clots. You may
also pass tissue from the vagina and have intense cramping or abdominal pain.
When Is Bleeding or Spotting During Pregnancy
Normal?
If you experience spotting after sex, that may result from
the cervix being aggravated during intercourse. This bleeding is usually very
light and resolves on its own. If the spotting becomes heavier bleeding or lasts
longer than a few days, speak with your healthcare provider.
As your pregnancy progresses, you may also experience some
light spotting or bleeding when the mucus plug that has blocked the cervix
during pregnancy dislodges.
Jack G. Faup M.D. is your trusted specialist for all
pregnancy-related matters. If you have any concerns about bleeding during
pregnancy, don't hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns
you may have.
